Naturopathic Medicine in Kansas:

A Comprehensive Guide

Since 2003, naturopathic doctors (NDs) have been regulated in Kansas, offering holistic, patient-centered care to support wellness and treat a range of health conditions. This page provides an overview of naturopathic medicine, its regulation, scope of practice, malpractice requirements, title protections, and how to apply to become a licensed ND in KS.

Regulation by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts

Since January 1, 2003, naturopathic doctors have been licensed and regulated by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts (BOHA) under the Naturopathic Doctor Licensure Act (K.S.A. 65-7201 et seq.). This ensures NDs meet rigorous educational and professional standards, safeguarding public safety. The BOHA oversees licensure, continuing education, and disciplinary actions, maintaining high standards for the licensed NDs in Kansas as of recent reports.

Scope of Practice for Naturopathic Doctors in Kansas

The scope of practice for NDs in Kansas, defined by K.S.A. 65-7202, allows for a range of preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic services, with specific limitations to ensure safety. NDs may:

  • Prescribe or Administer: Food, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, whole gland thyroid, botanicals, homeopathic preparations, nonprescription drugs, and certain topical drugs. Substances on the naturopathic formulary for intramuscular or intravenous administration are allowed under a written protocol with a physician.

  • Perform: Noninvasive physical exams, venipuncture for lab tests, orificial exams (including well-woman exams and PAP smears); minor office procedures, and naturopathic acupuncture (with specialty certification)

  • Provide: Health and nutritional counseling, dietary therapy, naturopathic physical applications, hydrotherapy, and barrier contraceptive devices.

  • Order: Diagnostic imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs)

Prohibitions: NDs may not perform surgery, practice obstetrics, administer ionizing radiation, or prescribe controlled substances or prescription-only drugs not on the naturopathic formulary.

To practice naturopathic acupuncture, NDs must obtain a specialty certification from the BOHA, requiring an application, fee, completion of oriental medicine philosophy coursework, and 500 hours of supervised clinical training.

Malpractice Insurance Requirements

Kansas law (K.S.A. 65-7217) mandates that all NDs maintain professional liability insurance as a condition of practice. The BOHA sets the minimum coverage level via rules and regulations, ensuring financial protection for patients in case of malpractice. This requirement aligns with the low malpractice insurance rates for NDs, reflecting the safety of their non-invasive practices.

How to Apply for a Naturopathic Doctor License in Kansas

To become a licensed ND in Kansas, applicants must meet strict educational and professional standards set by the BOHA. The application process includes:

  1. Education: Graduate from a BOHA-approved, accredited naturopathic medical college offering a four-year, in-residence program with at least 4,100 hours of coursework and clinical training.

  2. Examination: Pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination (NPLEX) administered by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE).

  3. Application: Submit a completed application to the BOHA, including:

    • Proof of education and NPLEX results.

    • Application fee (set by the BOHA).

    • Verification of good moral character and any prior licenses.

    • Background check, if required.

Safety of Naturopathic Medicine in Kansas

Naturopaths are license in Kansas to practice naturopathy, and have been regulated by the KS State Board of Healing arts since 2003. Since that time, there have been no events brought before the Board of Healing Arts related to patient care or clinical mismanagement.

Title recognition

Kansas law regulates the professional titles naturopathic doctors can use under the Kansas Naturopathic Doctor Licensure Act (K.S.A. 65-7201 et seq.). Only individuals who meet the state’s licensing requirements may use the title “Naturopathic Doctor” or the abbreviation “ND.” This prevents unlicensed individuals from misleading the public about their qualifications. Licensed naturopathic doctors must distinguish themselves from other healthcare professionals. The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts enforces these title regulations to maintain professional integrity and protect patients from misrepresentation. To legally use the ND abbreviation in Kansas, individuals must meet strict educational and licensing standards.

Apply to become an ND in Kansas

Contact the BOHA (www.ksbha.ks.gov) for forms and current fees.